With a pair of lockdown cornerbacks and two safeties returning with starting experience, Auburn's secondary could be the strength of the Tigers' 2006 defense.

Or it could be its weakest link.

While senior David Irons and junior Jonathan Wilhite are perhaps the SEC's top pair of cornerbacks, the Tigers recently lost experienced backup corner Montae Pitts, and their top returning safety, senior Will Herring, moved to linebacker in the spring.

But Auburn defensive coordinator and secondary coach Will Muschamp has a plan. And he plans to implement it Aug. 2 with the start of fall practice.

"We're going to have a good, fundamental, early part of fall," said Muschamp. "We're going to do the things that will help us win in this conference and that's playing physical, fundamental football."

Irons, who was recently named preseason first-team All-SEC, had a strong first season as a starter tallying 48 tackles and a team-high 11 pass breakups. Irons is one player that already understands the importance of physical play in Muschamp's system.

"David is strong and has good change of direction," said Muschamp. "He's a kid that plays the game in a physical and tough manner."